When Plan-A Did Not Work: Finding My Path Through SKUAST-Jammu

My Admission Journey: From PCM to Biotechnology

I chose PCM for my Classes 11 and 12 and appeared for the Jee Main exam. But, I was not able to score a high enough percentile to secure admission to any top branch at any top college. I did not want to secure admission to any state Engineering college. But, I had no other options left. So, I appeared for the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) entrance test and secured enough marks to be admitted to the Biotechnology branch.

From Uncertainty to Passion: How SKUAST Changed My View on Biotechnology

Initially, I was not interested in Biotechnology, and also found it difficult to understand Biology. But the teachers at SKUAST are very good. They tried their best to help every student understand the subject, and with time, I also started enjoying it.SKUAST Jammu has well-equipped labs and an excellent infrastructure. The college also has a very large, world-class sports complex and a cricket stadium. There are no restrictions on the labs. You can visit them any time for practice after taking permission from the lab in charge. The college keeps on organising various sports events, cultural programmes, dance competitions, debates, and a lot more.

Navigating Challenges and Growth at SKUAST-Jammu

With time, I started facing some issues in college. The teachers in the first year were very knowledgeable and helpful. But, from the second year onwards, they started paying less attention to classes. They are pretty knowledgeable, but they are not interested in teaching. One of my professors did not teach anything throughout the semester, and just gave notes one night before the exam. I was not able to cope with the syllabus. But, as I started going to the library frequently, focusing more on studies by taking notes from seniors and practising more in labs, I started improving academically. The college keeps on organising various seminars and workshops. Some of these events are not related to our course, but, we were forced to attend those events to fill seats.

The placements at the institute are below average. But, some of the professors are particularly helpful in this matter. They used their connections to help students get internships and jobs with decent salary packages. Although my course was a bit difficult, the knowledge I gained here is very valuable.

About the author:

Aseem is a BSc (Hons.) in Biotechnology graduate from SKUAST. Although he initially struggled to keep up with the course, he eventually successfully managed everything.